Top 15 things to do in the Coromandel
To help you make the most of your holiday, we’ve put together this handy list of the top 15 places to visit in Coromandel.
Planning to book a campervan hire for an Auckland to Coromandel road trip? With so many things to see in the Coromandel, it’s a haven for campervan travellers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Known for its stunning beaches, lush forests, and vibrant arts scene, this region is a treasure trove of natural beauty and outdoor adventures. Comprising several charming townships including Whitianga, Thames, and Coromandel Town, each area offers its own unique attractions and experiences.
Exploring the Coromandel in an Apollo campervan hire offers the freedom to discover its hidden gems at your own pace. Take your time, relax, and simply go with the flow of this chilled-out region. To help you make the most of your holiday, we’ve put together this handy list of the top 15 places to visit in Coromandel. From kayak tours and ziplining to gold-mining and wine tasting, we’ve included something for everyone. Let’s dive in.
1. Swim at Cooks Beach
Looking for a top-notch beach to enjoy a swim or a relaxed picnic? Cooks Beach sits on a scenic stretch of coastline just 30 minutes drive from Whitianga. With its golden sands and calm, clear waters, it's a fantastic place to visit in the Coromandel for beach lovers and families alike. The beach is sheltered, making it ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and even a bit of kayaking.
With an Apollo campervan hire, you can easily find a nearby spot to park and make the most of your day at the beach. And, if you're looking for a spot to park up for a few nights, nearby Flaxmill Campground is an excellent option. It's well-equipped and offers easy access to the beach.
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Image: Tourism New Zealand
2. Explore Mercury Bay Museum
Located in the heart of Whitianga, the Mercury Bay Museum is a hub of local history and culture, making it another Coromandel must-see. The museum is home to some fantastic exhibits that cover everything from the area's maritime past to the importance of Māori culture and the geological forces that have shaped the Coromandel Peninsula.
Whether you're a history buff or simply curious about the area, the Mercury Bay Museum offers a captivating look into what makes the Coromandel so unique. It's an ideal spot to include in your itinerary, especially if you're keen to experience some of the Coromandel tourist attractions that go beyond the natural beauty of the region.
3. Experience The Lawnmower’s Son Art Space
Located in Hahei Beach, the Lawnmower’s Son is a vibrant gallery and shop that showcases contemporary New Zealand art. This unique Coromandel tourist attraction features an eclectic mix of art forms, from paintings and sculptures to jewellery and glass art pieces.
Wander through the gallery and admire the unique artworks, then pop into the shop and check out the cool and quirky art for sale. You’ll find everything from beautiful pounamu jewellery to carved wood sculptures. It’s a great spot to pick up a nice gift for someone special – or for yourself!
4. Marvel at Cathedral Cove
There's one spot that consistently tops the list of Coromandel must-see landmarks. The iconic Cathedral Cove is one of the most photographed spots in the region and with good reason - it’s simply beautiful! To get there, you can take a scenic walk from the Cathedral Cove Lookout car park. The walk takes about 45 minutes each way. However, due to its popularity and limited parking near the trailhead, it's easiest to park your campervan hire in Hahei village and catch the local shuttle bus to the starting point of the walking track.
Once you arrive, you'll be greeted by a majestic natural archway that frames the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean. It's a breathtaking sight and a popular spot for photography, swimming, and snorkelling. The cove is also part of the Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve, so you'll likely spot a variety of marine life in the crystal-clear waters.
5. Take a kayak tour
If the idea of a 45-minute walk doesn't appeal to you, but you still want to experience the stunning beauty of Cathedral Cove, kayaking offers a fantastic alternative.
One of the most unforgettable things to do in Coromandel, the half-day Cathedral Cove Classic Tour takes you on a guided journey through the Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve to Cathedral Cove. Along the way, you'll have the chance to paddle through sea caves, interact with local marine life, and even land on the beach to explore Cathedral Cove up close. The tour is suitable for all skill levels and includes all the necessary equipment, so all you need to bring is your sense of adventure.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
6. Have a soak at Hot Water Beach
Ready for a unique beach experience? Make your way to Hot Water Beach. One of the most popular places to visit in the Coromandel, the beach is just a short drive from the Hahei town centre. Time your visit for around two hours either side of low tide to enjoy a relaxing dip in your very own hot pool. Just hire a spade from the surf store next door, dig a hole in the sand, and prepare to unwind. It's a surreal yet utterly calming experience to bask in warm mineral water while listening to the nearby ocean waves.
If you're keen to extend your beach adventure, consider staying at the nearby Hot Water Beach TOP 10. It offers excellent facilities for those travelling by motorhome hire and is perfectly located for you to make the most of everything on offer at Hot Water Beach.
7. Enjoy lunch at Mercury Bay Estate
If you have a taste for fine wines and good food, Mercury Bay Estate should be on your Coromandel must-see list. Situated on slopes overlooking stunning Mercury Bay, this vineyard is more than just a place to taste wine – it's a full sensory experience. As you sample a variety of locally produced wines, you'll be treated to panoramic views that make each sip even more enjoyable. The vineyard is also home to a restaurant that's open for lunches. Partner your wine with a gourmet tasting platter or mouth-watering wood-fired pizzas. It's the perfect setting to relax, enjoy the view, and indulge in some of the Coromandel's finest culinary offerings.
8. Go diving at Aldermen Islands
A top Coromandel tourist attraction for underwater adventurers, the Alderman Islands are known for their clear waters, abundant marine life, and fascinating underwater landscapes. From intricate caves and archways to vibrant coral gardens, the diving sites here are diverse and captivating. You'll have the chance to encounter a variety of marine species, including snapper, kingfish, and even the occasional dolphin.
Diving at the Alderman Islands is suitable for both beginners and experienced divers, with various dive operators in the area offering guided tours. It's a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Coromandel, both above and below the water.
9. Explore the kauri forests
Step back in time and connect with nature by exploring the kauri forests of the Coromandel. These ancient trees hold a significant place in the region's heritage and are a living testament to New Zealand's natural history. The kauri tree is the second-largest and second-longest living tree in the world, capable of living for over 1,000 years.
These majestic giants can be found in various parts of the Coromandel, including the Moehau ecological area, the Manaia Forest Sanctuary, and the upper reaches of the Tairua River. The forests offer a tranquil setting for hiking, photography, and simply soaking up the serenity of these ancient woodlands. There are several accessible sites for viewing ancient kauri around The Coromandel, including The Square Kauri Walk (Tapu/Coroglen Summit) and the Waiau Kauri Grove and Waterfall (309 Road).
10. Hike the Coromandel Coastal Walkway
While you’re in the Coromandel, don’t miss the opportunity to experience the Coromandel Coastal Walkway. This scenic trail stretches for 10 km (one way) and offers some of the most breathtaking views you'll find in the region. Starting from Stony Bay in the north and ending at Fletcher Bay in the south, the walkway takes you through native bush, past rugged cliffs, and along pristine beaches. Along the way, you'll have plenty of opportunities for photography, bird-watching, and even a refreshing swim at one of the secluded beaches you'll pass by.
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Image: Tourism New Zealand
11. Cool off at The Waterworks
Located on the 309 Road, The Waterworks proudly carries the title of being 'the quirkiest place in New Zealand.' With more than 70 fun attractions, this unique Coromandel tourist attraction is bursting at the seams with odd artefacts and crazy inventions. The Waterworks offers a variety of creative upcycled attractions, including two swimming holes, jumping boards, and even a huge water slide. Many of these are made from recycled materials and are powered only by water, making it a sustainable business as well.
You'll be pleased to know that The Waterworks offers overnight stays, allowing you to park up your campervan hire and enjoy a relaxing evening.
12. Learn about gold mining
The Coromandel Peninsula has a rich gold-mining history that dates back to the 19th century. Between 1868 and 1871, the region produced over one million pounds sterling. With such a fascinating history, it's no wonder that gold-mining is still a significant part of the Coromandel's allure.
Located on Tararu Road in Thames, the Goldmine Experience offers you a chance to step back in time and immerse yourself in this rich history. A guided tour takes you through an operational 19th-century Stamper Battery and into one of the area's richest goldmines. You can also opt for a self-guided tour, which allows you to explore a photographic museum, watch a fascinating video presentation, and see steam-powered machines.
But the adventure doesn't stop there. You'll also get the chance to try your hand at gold panning. Who knows, you might even strike it rich! It's a great way to add a historical twist to your Auckland to Coromandel road trip.
13. Try ziplining
If you're looking for a thrilling way to explore the Coromandel's natural beauty, why not try ziplining at Driving Creek? Located just a short drive from Coromandel Town, this adventure offers you the chance to glide through the forest canopy and experience the region's breathtaking native forest from all levels. You'll soar above trees, walk beneath ferns, and learn about the area's transformation from kauri logging and gold mining to a thriving hand-planted native forest.
14. Take the Driving Creek Railway Explorer
If ziplining isn't quite your speed, or you're looking for another way to enjoy the beauty of the Coromandel, the Driving Creek Railway Explorer is a delightful alternative. A top Coromandel tourist attraction, this charming narrow-gauge mountain railway takes you on a journey through regenerating native forest, past pottery sculptures, and up to the Eyefull Tower, a viewing platform that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
The train ride is a relaxing yet engaging experience, perfect for families, couples, and solo travellers alike. Relax as someone else does the driving for a bit while you take in the scenery. Along the way, you’ll also learn about the history of the railway, the native flora and fauna, and the conservation efforts that have gone into preserving this beautiful area.
After a day of exploring, park up your Apollo campervan hire for the night at the Coromandel TOP 10 Holiday Park, conveniently located in Coromandel Town. With top-notch facilities including a heated swimming pool, TV lounge, laundry, and covered BBQ areas, it's a great place to relax and unwind.
15. Find the Lost Spring
If you're looking for a slice of paradise to unwind and rejuvenate during your campervan road trip, The Lost Spring in Whitianga won’t disappoint. Spend a day soaking in the pools or being pampered at the spa. Relax in geothermal waters sourced from a 16,000-year-old spring. The mineral-rich water is said to have therapeutic qualities and leaves your skin feeling soft and nourished. If you're keen for a bit more pampering, the day spa offers a variety of treatments that will have you feeling like a new person.
But it's not just about relaxation; you can also indulge in some delicious dining options. Opt for a poolside platter or dine in the historic schoolhouse restaurant or on the tree-top decks – both offer stunning views over the lagoon and waterfalls.
Visit Coromandel with Apollo
There you have it, a roundup of some of the top places to visit in Coromandel. From its stunning beaches and lush forests to its rich history and vibrant arts scene, this region is a treasure trove of activities and sights.
Exploring the Coromandel by Apollo motorhome hire gives you the freedom to take in all these wonders at your own pace. Whether you're into adrenaline-pumping adventures or prefer a more laid-back holiday, travelling in an Apollo campervan offers the flexibility to create your perfect itinerary.
Ready to hit the road? Don't miss out on the trip of a lifetime. Book an Apollo camper online today and start planning your ultimate Coromandel road trip.